My wife and I recently visited the island and enjoyed every minute of the experience. We highly recommend the VIP ferris wheel package. The staff was so friendly and helpful with everything. We also lost our pictures and info to get them online and within 24 hours we had a response and the digital images. We can't say enough good things about the island and would recommend visiting to everyone and we will definitely be making a return trip. read more

The island is always a wonderful stop for everyone. My son loves Dino's and they currently have the dinosaur experience going on. Our big girl was finally big enough for the harness adventure here. Mom and dad got to do a moonshine tasting. read more

The Island - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

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The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of those places where you can easily spend several hours wandering around without really having a plan--and that's part of the fun! There's a great mix of shops, restaurants, attractions, entertainment, and plenty of colorful details that make it an enjoyable place to explore. I visited during the fall, and I especially loved all of the seasonal touches. Pumpkins, mums, hay bales, a vintage tractor, and other autumn decorations made the entire area feel festive and gave me plenty of fun photo opportunities. Of course, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is the landmark you can't miss. Riding it gives you a completely different perspective of Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area, and the enclosed gondolas make for a comfortable ride. My biggest hesitation is the price. Since you pay per person, taking an entire family up in one gondola can become expensive pretty quickly. Overall, The Island is a fun stop whether you want to ride attractions, grab something to eat, shop, people-watch, or simply walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. Even if you don't ride the wheel, it makes a pretty spectacular backdrop! Four stars from me--fun, photogenic, and definitely worth exploring, but some of the attractions can make a family visit pricey. read more

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I came to the Island a couple of different times during my vacation and I really enjoyed it. First, the parking lot is huge! You can definitely walk to the Island but it's a little bit of a trek. It's probably easier to take the tram, which seems to run pretty frequently. Parking is free. Once you finally arrive, there is tons of stuff to do! Shops, rides, restaurants, and bars are everywhere. It's all very walkable and it's got a good vibe. Overall, I'd definitely recommend that people check out the Island at least once if they're in the area. read more

Decent shopping area. Unlimited riding pass was pricey. The pass does not work for all of the rides. Little kiddie rides were rough and jerky. Better off taking your little kiddos to Dollywood instead! read more

Plenty to do here with your family ! It is very convenient that they have shuttles to take you around back to your vehicle ! The kids had a blast out here and loved the dinosaur and water show ! read more

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This is a very beautiful shopping place in Pigeon Forge. I really loved the dinosaur figurines outside; cool! With that being said, we found it a bit of a tourist trap and pricey, but that was to be expected for the area and kind of place this is. There are tons of alcohol tasting places and food places through out here. We did do a stop and tasting at Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, which was unique enough since I am from the west coast visiting, and fun. I still think if you want more authentic tastings and food, to go to downtown Gatlinburg instead (it's all similar enough though). We also did a wine tasting here and all the wines were so sweet for my palette. I did enjoy the shops and pursuing around this beautiful area. A great spot to get some steps in. Many places also offer free samples of food to (like the candy store) so don't be afraid to go in and try. read more

The Island - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Such a great way to spend an afternoon while getting some exercise! First, the parking lot is HUGE so you will absolutely be able to find a space. Parking is free and regardless where you park, you aren't far from a trolley stop. The trolley is free and will transport you to the entrance of the island where all the action is. The island itself has SO MANY things to do, places to eat, and places to shop. At the entrance itself, you will find Ben and Jerry's ice cream, a 7d immersive gaming experience, a large fountain display that dances to music (along with animatronic dinosaurs that will also be found throughout the property), a lemonade stand and walking taco stand and more! Walking the property you will find amusement rides, an arcade, Starbucks, mello mushroom, great big gameshow, and so much more. There is something for everyone here and things stay open late! They even have a hotel and timeshare property if you want to stay on property instead of driving in. I had a great time and can't wait to go back. read more

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Still part of our December 2025 Smoky Mountains trip, The Island in Pigeon Forge is a loud, flashy stop in the heart of Pigeon Forge. If you've run out of things to do and still have the time and energy, it's worth a stroll--especially if you have young kids who just want space to play and explore. It's clean, safe, and very family-friendly. That said, we found it overrated and pricey. A quick stop at Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine set the tone, and prices throughout the shops and food stall felt inflated. We found way better quality and better deals at Old Mill Square and other spots around town. There's no admission fee, and the city's trolley system makes it easy to access, but overall it feels like a tourist trap. Nice to walk around once--but not a place we'd go out of our way to revisit. Eventually we need to have dinner but opted to drive all the way up Gatlinburg for a great dinner. read more

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Absolutely loved the dinosaurs outside and plenty of seating. My only draw back is if you want to sit it will be out in the sun. If it rains your only protection are the businesses with awnings unless you go into stores. But all in all I loved it and can't wait to go back read more

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Really cool! Kids loved the fountain show. I think the rides are overpriced but I think it's just tourist pricing. Many of the shops were really cute and unique. We found parking easily and the tram looked to work good for many other guests. Definitely worth a stop to see the environment. read more

The Island - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Only way to explain this place is "Disney Springs but country". Lots of shops, arcades, rides, and food. Most of the restaurants are 3 or below stars so we didn't do a sit down dinner but we did snack at different locations. The area was nice; a bit crowded so I wouldn't recommend it for those with anxiety with crowds. The rides were fun for our younger ones, the single price for rides were 6.99 a ride but they do a bracelet where you get unlimited for that day and the next for a bundle price. Some rides were closed down so the older kids didn't get much for this package. They offer military discounts They have a water light show every 30 mins at their pond area, only true turn off is the parking. Super nightmare. read more

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My family and I visited The Island in Pigeon Forge early on a Monday morning, and it turned out to be a great time to go. We parked across the street in their free parking area, which had plenty of available spots at that hour. The walk over was less than a mile and very manageable. Although the weather wasn't ideal--light rain and chilly temperatures--it didn't take away from the experience. We started by walking around and taking everything in. There are so many cute shops, unique stores, and plenty of great photo opportunities throughout the area. We did a little shopping, sampled some food, and purchased tickets to ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which was a highlight. Before heading out, we made one last stop at Ole Smoky Moonshine, which is always a fun experience. Even though the weather didn't fully cooperate, we still had a great time and really enjoyed our visit. The Island has a fun, lively atmosphere and offers something for everyone--we'd definitely go back! read more

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Such a great time here! We stayed at Margaritaville Island Resort since we knew most of our time would be spent at The Island--and it did not disappoint. It's not only great for kids but just as fun for adults, with plenty of food options, attractions, and unique tastings at Ole Smoky and the Cidery. The music playing throughout the island sets the perfect vibe, and the live birds are such a fun and unexpected touch. Overall, a fantastic experience! read more

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This was a pretty cool place to check out while in town. Plenty of parking and a free trolley that will take you to the center where all the attractions are. There is a trolley stop close to almost anywhere you park in the designated lot. Best part is that the parking is free and there is no entry fee for "The Island". Lots of shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides. You simply pay for the rides that you would like to get on. We payed for our rides separately but there is also an unlimited rides pass that can be purchased for a fee. Highly recommend the Ferris wheel, as you'll get a great view especially at dusk. Tickets were around $18, but the tourist coupon booklets located all over the city offer a $2 discount per ticket(you only need one coupon). Three Margaritaville Hotels also located here as well as a Margaritaville restaurant, of course. You can also do a scavenger hunt by finding all of the animatronic dinosaurs in the amusement park. Light show at the water fountain several times a day as well (hourly?) Lots of fun! Would definitely visit this spot again. read more

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My favorite place in Pigeon Forge is the 23 acre area called The Island, which is said to have over 80+ shops including restaurants. There's also a huge Ferris wheel and an adjoining park. We chose the perfect time to visit! The entire area is beautifully decorated for the Christmas holiday, which is a must see! read more

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The hidden gem of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! This is such a family friendly outdoor attraction. I love that it is free to enter and free to park. There are three restaurants to eat at here. The park also has a jurassic theme with animated dinosaurs throughout. Great place to bring if you have kids, or if you're on a date. read more

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The Island in Pigeon Forge is 100% a tourist destination but being that they have Ole Smokey Distillery, Lazy One, and Pepper Palace, we had to visit. The parking lot is HUGE and thank goodness they have a complimentary tram that goes around and makes stops. We visited on a Thursday and Saturday and there's a huge difference between visiting during certain days of the week. If visiting on weekends, know that the tram may not be able to pick you up due to overcrowding. There was only one tram running both days we visited. However, you are able to walk to The Island if you can/want to. The Island is nice and clean. There are lots of shops and if you care to eat there, plenty of restaurants. When we visited, there were dinosaur installments around the area which was fun. The biggest mistake we made was going to the information booth to ask how much the ferris wheel was. Instead of a quick answer, they were trying to upsell us on a package "deal." It was difficult getting one answer from them. Because of this, we decided to opt out of the Ferris wheel. The second time, we sat on a bench next to another information booth where they were trying to sell a lady on free drinks at Margaritaville. After they were done, they saw us and also tried selling us this "deal" and proceeded with vacation bundles, it was very difficult for them to understand the words, "no thank you." Pro tip: the information booths are solely to sell you on stuff...they're not actually helpful. If it weren't for these slimy tactics preying on tourists, I would have given The Island 5 stars. read more

The Island is the best place to shop, eat, drink and have fun all in one place! Easy parking lot with shuttle buses or a short walk from the first parking areas! The Sky Wheel and Sky Fly are my favorite rides! The Margaritaville Island Hotel is my absolute favorite hotel to stay in! We also love the Timberwood Grill! I could sit and watch the fountain literally all day long! read more

The Island - The Fountain - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Amazing experience! The kids really liked all of the rides and the adults enjoyed the shopping! I'd definitely return and recommend. read more

The Island - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

If you like excitement, food and shopping with a twist, this is the place to go! There is so much to see and do. There are amusement rides, and a beautiful fountain at center court. A great place to spend some time looking for unique purchases or just relaxing on a rocking chair by the fountains. read more

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Super touristy spot. The stores are okay. The restaurants are meh. The rides are expensive just like everything in Piegon Forge. Be prepared to wait in lines if your children are riding rides. read more

Has lots to do for everyone. Very expensive. Definitely want to plan for at least one whole day.

It was okay, it had some stores we went in and a moonshine place, but overall it is like many places in this area and touristy. read more

The Island - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Parking and shopping is free, you just have to pay separately for some of their rides. It was ok. Very touresty with the usual hot sauce store, souvenir shop and moonshine tasting room. The taste were $10 for 5 or six tastings but two free ones if you didn't want to get too many. Not a necessary stop for sure. The old mill shopping area is better in my opinion. read more

The island has a ton of shopping and games and rides, but do realize that this is a tourist trap. Some store, Ole smokey store, beef jerky, Kermit key lime pies, etc. We wanted to ride the ferris wheel but we waited till dark, and it was worth it. An adult ticket on the ferrus wheel is $16 per adult. Great place for the kiddies. Clean around the inside of the park but it was a mess in the parking lot. Tons of garbage when we arrived in the parking lot. Full bag of Popeyes chicken when I got out of my truck and there was more. Worth a visit but watching for the garbage where you park. read more

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A very busy area with lots to do and places to eat and shop! Very pretty at dark with lots of lights! Plus a huge parking lot thats free to park. we visited the first week of June 2024 read more

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Pleasantly surprised with this place. They have tram cars to take you to the entrance but we all walked and it wasn't that far from the parking. We ate at a restaurant (can't remember the name of it) but it was really great! My kids loved the mirror maze and the puzzle store. The owners on the USA store were friendly. My girls loved all the moving Dino's throughout the place. Pretty flowers and landscaping. read more

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a fun place to visit with lots of shops, restaurants, and things to do. My favorite part is sitting by the water fountain and watching the fountain shows. It's a great place to relax and spend some time, though it can get pretty crowded. Overall, it's a fun stop when you're in Pigeon Forge. read more

This is a great place for walking around. Here you will find numerous restaurants, shops and attractions. Lots of family based activities. read more

The Island - Ferris Wheel and chairs in front of Ole Smoky Distillery. - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

So much to do! Great for all ages! Plenty of food, rides and shopping! This place appeals everyone.

This was an absolutely awesome time!! Fun for all ages, and something for all everyone. There's free parking and a Tram to transport you to the area if you do not want to walk. There are rides, a Ferris wheel, virtual ride, restaurants, moonshine tasting , arcade, fun places for kids and loads of shops. There's a water fountain show every 1/2 hour to an hour where you can sit back in rocking chair and relax. It's a wonder time for and can surely fill your day. Definitely a must see if in the area. read more

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Nice place combing all elements for every age. Unlimited ride passes recommended. Fountain show nice. Walk along river with lights. read more

Great Place to take your family to walk. Take a ride on Amusement Park rides. Eat. See water shows and Shop! read more

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Came here with 13 other family members ranging in age from 3-64 and we ALL had a great time. Something for everyone here between the restaurants, shopping, arcades, rides, and attractions. The weather was awesome in January and we basically had the entire island to ourselves. Bonus was finding out that adults don't have to pay extra to ride with the little ones if they're too small to ride alone. Even with 14 people, we never had to wait for a table at one of the restaurants and we walked right on every ride without waiting. Every employee was super kind and helpful. Special shoutout to the amazing Marvin who we met when we rode DanceParty 360 and the ThunderDome. He was so fun, kind, and had the best sense of humor :) Thank you Marvin for making our first family visit to Pigeon Forge and The Island so memorable . Signed, Chicken read more

The Island - Amusement Parks Near Me - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

If you're visiting Pigeon Forge and don't swing by The Island... did you even really go? This place is like a mini theme park meets shopping village with a dash of laid-back Southern charm. It's super walkable, lively, and packed with things to do for ALL ages. We came as a couple but saw tons of families and even solo travelers just soaking in the vibe. Let's start with The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel -- YES, it's worth it! Even for someone afraid of heights (‍), the enclosed gondolas felt super secure and the ride is smooth and scenic. Great photo ops from the top! Then there's the Island Show Fountain -- honestly mesmerizing. The water dances to music, and it's totally free to enjoy. We grabbed ice cream and watched the show from one of the rocking chairs around the fountain. Major vacation mode vibes. We also did SkyFly: Soar America and WOW -- what an experience! Think Soarin' at Disney, but with a Smoky Mountain twist. It was exhilarating and beautifully done. Dining? You're covered. We had dinner at Timberwood Grill and couldn't stop raving about the mountain nachos and burgers. The service was fast, friendly, and genuinely warm. Pro tip: if you're eyeing Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, go early or prepare to wait--it's crazy popular. Shopping was such a fun surprise. Whether it's homemade fudge, quirky gifts, moonshine tastings at Ole Smoky, or honey from Savannah Bee Company, it's not your run-of-the-mill tourist junk. Quality stuff here! Also... FREE PARKING and a convenient tram that takes you straight to the main area. It's little things like this that make the visit feel easy and welcoming. TL;DR: The Island is 100% worth carving out several hours of your trip. Come hungry, bring your camera, and be ready to smile a lot. This place is an absolute Pigeon Forge highlight. read more

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There's something for everyone here. My 3 year old LOVED the rides, there's plenty of different stores to shop. Its touristy, but as a tourist, we loved it lol. Not something I would want to do regularly, or every day, but once a year when we visit for vacation its nice. I saw some reviews that said the food wasn't good, but we went to the Timberwood Grill and it was delicious. My husband got a bison burger and loved it, and I got the buffalo chicken sandwich and it was one of the best chicken sandwiches I've ever had. read more

At the chill bar in hotel Margaritaville by the rooftop pool . Margaritas are excellent. Bartender is amazing . The view is awesome. Love the dancing waters . read more

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We had such a blast! The Lady at the ticket counter was such a Sweetie! She gave us a Local Discount after seeing my License and Was a Great Conversation! We had made such great memories on the Ferris wheel with our little Guy!! (A wait time of under 10 minutes.) A ride of an about 20 with Gorgeous views of Pigeon Forge at 200 Feet! There's no Height or Weight requirement, BTW. Thanks for the Memories! Lots of Food and Shops too! Of course, we will be Back! -The Kanevski's My Recommendations: -The Ferris Wheel -Mellow Mushroom -Cool Little Exhibits throughout the Island -Support Local Small Businesses!! -Of you're a Local... TELL THEM! -Arcade is A Blast!! - Catch the light and Water show, if you Can! Pros: -So many food Joints -A lot of shops for souvenirs -Lots of parking with a Trolly Available for Transport - Discount Prices for Locals!! Cons: -A LOT of People!! The island is the place to go!! Can be congested. read more

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If you're visiting The Island and you have kids with you, get the unlimited rides wristband! Your kids are going to ask to ride every ride they see, and if you have a wristband, then they will be able to ride as many rides as they want. The wristband allows you 48-hour access to unlimited rides on the carousel, Happy Swing, Thunderdome, the giant ferris wheel that they call the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, and a dozen other rides and attractions. For $10 more, you can add the ropes course, too. My children really liked the ropes course! It's challenging for older kids, but it also has a lower-to-the-ground area for younger kids. The piece de resistance of the ropes course is the free fall area, where you jump from a high point all the way to the ground. The ropes course doesn't have a time limit, so you can explore as long as you want. My kids spent about 20-30 minutes here. We also really liked the big ferris wheel: the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. This ferris wheel is huge, and when you're at the top, it seems like you can see all of Pigeon Forge. The Island is like a big outdoor mall, with lots of shops and restaurants, but it's also like a mini amusement park because of all the rides. You could spend a good chunk of the day here, just riding rides and walking around. There is a lot to see and experience at The Island. read more